Valentines Day is so romantic here on the homestead. Most husbands and wives exchange chocolate or jewelery.

We exchanged a sheep and a recipe for pizza sauce. Our love language is complicated.

Here are some more dirty details: I asked for and received a bred Texel ewe because sheep are better than shoes. And I gave him the homemade recipe for Kraft Pizza Sauce which is his absolute favorite from his 80’s childhood but they do not make anymore. A little internet research and some help from my bestie and we nailed it down. I do love that man.

And because I love you as well, I’m sharing the version I made. Reviews were very positive with comments like “This is the best pizza you’ve ever made, Mom” and ” Dead on”. I, myself, thought it was very, very close in color, taste, and texture without having the same brand of tomato paste that Kraft uses.

And what did Trevor think? “It’s just not the same. But its close.”

Sigh. He’s nothing if not honest. But it was fun to try to duplicate it and we had a lively supper conversation, if nothing else.

So the verdict is in we are keeping it as the go to recipe from now on, and I’ll experiment with the tomato paste until we nail it.

“Kraft” Pizza Sauce

1 can of Organic Tomato Paste (6oz)
1 cup water
1/4 cup canola oil
1 tsp lime juice
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp dried onion powder
1/2 tsp dried red pepper ( I used Club House Roasted Garlic and Peppers)

Mix all ingredients in a medium saucepan, and bring to a boil. Return to a simmer, on low, for 30 minutes, stirring frequently. Cool, let sit in the fridge overnight to blend flavors.

Makes enough to cover 2 large pizzas. Doubles well. Keep extra sauce in fridge for up to 7 days.

Romance is still alive, food is love, and here’s to thinking about gift giving outside the box….the pizza box that is!

Love, Jenn xx